Heterochromatin patterns and karyotype relationships within and between the genera Brycon and Salminus (Pisces, Characidae)

Chromosomes of two Brycon species (B. lundii and B. microlepis) and Salminu s hilarii were analyzed. Based on constitutive heterochromatin distribution patterns, karyotypic relationships within and between Bryconinae and Salmi ninae were examined. A monophyletic origin for the genus Brycon, comprising at least two chromosome synapomorphies (presence of two large submetacentr ic bearing paracentromeric and telomeric heterochromatin), is suggested. Mo reover, Bryconinae and Salmininae may represent a monophyletic unit among C haracidae, as they share several chromosome features.